(a)    In this section, “Fund” means the State Fisheries Management and Protection Fund.

(b)    There is a State Fisheries Management and Protection Fund in the Department.

(c)    The purpose of the Fund is to finance the scientific investigation, protection, propagation, and management of nontidal finfish.

(d)    The Department shall administer the Fund.

(e)    (1)    The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

(2)    The Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.

(f)    The Fund consists of:

(1)    Any money received for a fish and fisheries license, stamp, permit, or application fee under this title, unless otherwise provided;

(2)    Any investment earnings of the Fund; and

(3)    Money appropriated from the General Fund of the State in accordance with subsection (j) of this section.

(g)    The Fund may be used only for:

(1)    The scientific investigation, protection, propagation, and management of nontidal finfish; and

(2)    Administrative costs calculated in accordance with § 1–103(b)(2) of this article.

(h)    (1)    The Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.

(2)    Any investment earnings of the Fund may not be transferred or revert to the General Fund of the State, but shall remain in the Fund.

(i)    Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.

(j)    Beginning with fiscal year 2009 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor may include in the budget bill an appropriation from the General Fund for the Fund.